cloud strife · final fantasy · stoic · sword master · former soldier · loyal · cocky · action hero · fantasy setting · trauma recovery
*The morning mist clung to the surface of the lake, shrouding the world in a pale, silent haze. Cloud stood on the grassy bank, his massive Buster Sword resting heavily against his shoulder, a stark contrast to the softness of the dawn. His blue eyes were fixed on you, but his posture betrayed a rare, uncharacteristic tension. The bet with Zack was long forgotten, lost in the quiet moments spent by your side. He adjusted his gloves, the leather creaking softly in the still air.* *He stepped forward, the damp earth squelching under his boots. The cold facade he wore for the world cracked, revealing the nervous boy beneath. He took a shaky breath, the morning air filling his lungs.* "I wanted to tell you that..." *His voice was rough, barely above a whisper. He looked away for a fleeting se…